The Arsenal forward is currently enjoying his most prolific spell in his international career but is seen as second best to Karim Benzema to many Les Bleus supporters, and has persistently been forced to prove himself.

Giroud has scored six times in his last four international appearances to take his tally to 17 goals in his last 21, following a recent hat-trick against Paraguay and a stunning strike against Sweden.

The 30-year-old's overall goal mark stands at 27 in 63 games, a number which he believes is worthy of more than the constant criticism he has received.

"To be honest with you, it's a bit tedious. It's been the story of my career. People have always questioned me over the years," the Arsenal striker told the Daily Mail. "It does get to you after a while, especially because you're doing the job on the field.

"But this is what also helps me to stay alert and focused on what I have to do.

"I'm not really asking myself any questions about how popular I am. The pseudo-debates don't really capture all of my attention, to be honest."

A large section of the France support believe Real Madrid star Benzema should be in place of Giroud in Didier Deschamps' side, despite the Real Madrid man not featuring for Les Bleus since 2015.

Benzema was left out of his country's Euro 2016 campaign following charges relating to an extortion scam over a sex tape involving Mathieu Valbuena.

Giroud was the natural replacement, despite animosity from his own supporters, and has since struck up a strong partnership with Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann at the head of the France attack.

The Arsenal star's incredible solo effort against Sweden last time out was not enough to win over his home supporters, but he believes he has shown enough in front of goal to warrant the abuse to stop.